Two suspects apprehended for allegedly torching 51 Putco buses, more arrest imminent

In a breakthrough development, the police in Mpumalanga have announced the swift arrest of two male suspects who are allegedly linked to the torching of 51 Putco buses in Nkangala District, on Monday evening of 27 January 2025.

Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, said the two men were apprehended on Tuesday evening, 28 January 2025, barely 24-hours after the shocking incident took place.

The suspects were allegedly amongst a group of armed individuals driving a white Toyota Quantum, Vito Minibus and a VW Polo, who stormed into four Putco depots and went on a burning spree.

As a result, 16 buses in Moloto(KwaMhlanga) and another 35 buses in Siyabuswa(Thabane and Maphotla) were  torched to ashes. One security guard reportedly sustained a gunshot wound, while other employees were assaulted.

“ One of the suspects was found in possession of a mobile phone belonging to one of the victims, as well as a magazine for a 9mm pistol without ammunition. The police are convinced that these two individuals were allegedly involved in the bus depot incident, and further investigations are ongoing,” said Brigadier Mdhluli.

The swift arrest was commended by Mpumalanga Acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major-General(Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi. He said more arrests are imminent.

“ We are encouraged by the achievement made so far and we hope that the team will continue to bring more results going forward,” said General Mkhwanazi.